By Rhythm and Blues Showcase (151.204.38.119) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 03:16 pm:

Some favorites who I consider the best are Ali-Ollie Woodson, GC Cameron and John Edwards(most flexible), Dennis Edwards and Levi Stubbs (Power), Diana Ross and Richard Street (Personality), Gladys Knight (pure soul)

By Yan (62.30.112.1) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 03:20 pm:

Clyde McPhatter- best and most important singer in r&b. (In the soul era- David Ruffin)

By STUBASS (206.135.204.2) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 03:22 pm:

PLEASE ALLOW ME TO ANSWER THIS ONE ON BEHALF OF MY GOOD BUDDY MEL(ANDTHENSOME)!!!...THE ANSWER IS RRRRRRRRRRUUUUUUFFFFFFFFFFFFFFIIIINNNNNNN

By R&B (138.238.41.118) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 03:27 pm:

GREAT,GREAT QUESTION,ALTHOUGH I THINK THAT CLYDE MCPHATTER IS THE GREATEST FIRST TENOR IN R&B HISTORY,EDDIE KENDRICKS IS MY FAVORITE LEAD BECAUSE OF THE FLUIDNESS OF HIS VOICE,IT'S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT HIS DELIVERY THAT SETS HIM APART FROM EVERYBODY{WITH ALL RESPECT TO CLYDE}EDDIE'S VOICE JUST SOARED.AND NO TENOR IN SOUL MUSIC TO THIS DAY CAN TOUCH HIM,I TAKE MY HAT OF TO THE LATE GREAT EDDIE K.

By Nish (216.148.246.70) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 03:58 pm:

Clyde McPhatter. SEMINAL influence on basically every tenor in the doo-wop and soul era. He had a vexing effect on the ladies with his voice (I HOPE I'm not the only one). Sang lead with TWO of the most important groups EVER. He's tied with Smokey. GREAT to see all this CLYDE MCPHATTER! :-)

For superior showmanship, importance and soul - DAVID RUFFIN!!!!

By nikki (24.46.200.124) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 04:06 pm:

Willie Winfield (Harptones), Rudy West (5 Keys), Bobby Lester (Moonglows), Nolan Strong (Diablos), James Ellis (Satintones), Dean Barlow (Crickets, Montereys), Vern Williams (Royal Holidays/Pyramids), James "Shep" Sheppard (Limelites), Eugene Mumford (Larks), Lillian Leach (Mellows), Barbara English (Clickettes), Jimmy McGowan (4 Fellows), Gene Pearson (Rivileers), Tommy Lockhart (Master Four)....and of course Jackie Wilson and Clyde McPhatter, with whom-ever, when-ever, and where-ever!!!

In harmony,

Nikki
http://www.harmonytrain.com

By Ritchie Hardin (62.254.0.8) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 04:07 pm:

No question.... David Ruffin.

But I'd like to nominate a great "unknown" who should be right up there with the best: Edward Hamilton, who - but for unfortunate timing - might have been David's replacement in the Temptations!

By Vandelron (205.188.209.38) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 05:11 pm:

Male---David RUFFIN(hands down)yearning,power,depth:-Female-Gladys Knight(hands down)--power,subtelty,soul,passion--I saw Ms Gladys recently and her voice is exactly the same as its always been.

By Yan (62.30.112.1) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 05:35 pm:

Ritchie-

...is that the same Edward Hamilton of "I'm Gonna Love You"?? I love the male backing vocals near the end of that track. Yes, he's a fine vocalist; but theres a difference between guys like this and a Ruffin, Johnnie Taylor...or even Teddy P in his early days with the Bluenotes.

By Ritchie (62.254.0.8) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 05:41 pm:

Yes, that's the guy. No, he wasn't a Ruffin-clone. He'd probably have led the Temps down a completely different path. I think he had a wonderful voice, somewhere between Sam Cooke and Smokey Robinson, but unique in its own way.

By TD (207.221.193.155) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 05:48 pm:

Most people on this site agree that the greatest lead singer of all time is Levi Stubbs.
In his autobiography Smokey Robinson stated quite nicely that if they could hang Levi Stubbs voice on the wall it would be the "Mona Lisa" of voices.
I Second That Emotion.
Can you get any better than "Ask The Lonely"
I don't think so.

TD

By Eli (151.197.38.124) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 08:36 pm:

As far as fifties females go..Arlene Smith of The Chantells and the sixties go Patti Labelle and the seventies also go to Patti as do the eighties and the nineties go to Mariah C. And for males the fifties go to Clyde and Sam Cooke neck in neck and sixties go to David Ruffin and the seventies go to Dennis Edwards.
And although not a lead per se, Donny Hathaway.The eighties go to Ollie Woodson and Luther V.

By SisDetroit (68.42.209.170) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 08:42 pm:

ELI - RIGHT ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Eli (151.197.38.124) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 08:47 pm:

Sis..Right on Right on!!!!! fo' sho'

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 09:13 pm:

Maxine Brown has to be one of my all time favourite female artist as well as Fontella Labass and of course Patti Labelle, G.C. Cameron and ali-ollie woodson just have a smooth way of singing and love love love Gerald and Eddie Levert

By Horse (68.61.77.137) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 09:35 pm:

Right on Stu,
RRRRRRRRRRRuFFFFFFFFFFFinn..! But there are a lot of Extremely Hot singers mentioned here.
Who was the lead vocalist with the Dells?

By Vickie (205.188.209.38) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 09:41 pm:

Diana Ross
David Ruffin
Mavis Staple (if she counts as lead, I think so)
Teddy Pendergrass
Levi Stubbs

By STUBASS (206.135.204.2) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 09:41 pm:

HORSE: MARVIN JUNIOR WAS THE DYNAMIC LEAD BARITONE SINGER IN "THE DELLS"!!!...BY THE WAY...REMEMBER THE FILM..."THE FIVE HEARTBEATS"...DESPITE SOME PEOPLE WHO THINK THEY WERE MODELED AFTER ONE OF THE MOTOWN GROUPS...THE "HEARTBEATS" WERE ACTUALLY MODELED AFTER "THE DELLS"!!!...STU

By STUBASS (206.135.204.2) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 09:42 pm:

HEY VICKIE: APPRECIATE YOUR MENTION OF LEVI STUBBS!!!...CAN'T DISCUSS THIS SUBJECT WITHOUT LEVI SOMEWHERE IN CONTENTION!!!...STU

By stephanie (207.94.145.111) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 10:23 pm:

Male - Levi Stubbs
Female - I love Diana Ross but in my book Jean Terrell I would kill to have a voice like that.
Family Group - Hands down Michael Jackson over the Osmonds and the Cowsills and the Defranco Family and the Partridges.
Gospel - Sam Cooke with the Soul Stirrers
I have to give props to Jimmy Beaumont too one of the best voices of the decade...
Stephanie

For superior showmanship, importance and soul - DAVID RUFFIN!!!! >>>>>>>
Nish I knew you were going to get Daddy Ruff in there.

By stephanie (207.94.145.111) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 10:28 pm:

British I forgot to mention the incomporable Eric Burdon of the Animals and Gary Brooker from Procol Harum NO brits sing like these two....If I had to pick a third it would be Rod Stewart from the faces. I have a lot of Procol Harum albums and I can listen to Gary Brooker sing anything.
Steph

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 10:35 pm:

Levi Stubbs, G.C. Cameron and ali woodson Fontella labass as well as the great Maxine Brown and Freda Payne

By Nish (66.119.33.170) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 10:40 pm:

Steph - you KNOW it!

Oh man, favorite gospel leads - CLAUDE JETER!!!!

And whomever said G.C. Cameron was versatile is right on the money.

By mhc (172.161.98.52) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 11:05 pm:

My nominee for best R&B vocal group record EVER is "I Only Have Eyes For You" by The Flamingos. To me, they were in some exalted zone, some heavenly terrain, when they recorded this.. And the lead singer's name is ?????.. Also, I have this 45 on the Sue label called "Psycho" bu Bobby Hendricks, which features Clyde McPhatter as songwriter and guest vocalist. Do any of you record collectors know this one?

By Nish (66.119.33.170) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 11:28 pm:

MHC - the lead singer on that song is Nathaniel Nelson... one of the most romantic, dreamy voices ever. The Flamingos are my favorite doo-wop group in all their incarnations.

Psycho... interesting!!

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 11:31 pm:

Hey Nish Have you heard G.C.'s new cd it is in a word awesome

By Nish (66.119.33.170) on Saturday, February 08, 2003 - 11:58 pm:

No, Nancy I've been trying to get my hands on it all over the net to no avail. I hear it's really out of sight. Go on, torture me with some track details, lady!! :-)

By StingBeeLee (68.43.129.202) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 12:48 am:

We have mentioned the three greatest tenors of all time- Sam Cooke, Clyde McPhatter and Jackie Wilson; but what about the fourth one, Little Willie John? He is usually overlooked and his records and his voice are on a par with the other three, just listen to "Talk to me", "Fever", "All around the world". Because he's also from Detroit, he must be mentioned.

By G-WIZ (68.43.16.115) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 01:45 am:

sugar pie honeybunch

By soulie dave uk (62.254.64.5) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 04:18 am:

David Ruffin, Levi Stubbs, and Gladys Knight probably my top three, but what about Marvin Smith of the Artistics? How do you guys rate him. Great voice. Great records. Regards, SDUK.

By Jim Vitti (68.60.97.20) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 04:22 pm:

Hello everyone,

I would like to share with you my opinion on some of these great singers. I have always had my own rating system, based on their ability to raise goose-bumps up my spine, bring tears to my eyes,and raise the hair on the back of my neck.
These artists had the ability to cause my hand to shake while riding the fader during the recording of their vocals. I will never forget those exciting and emotional moments.
The list is as follows:

Gladys Knight
Levi Stubbs
Aretha Franklin
Marvin Junior
David Ruffin
William "weegee" Howard
Marilyn McCoo
Leslie Uggams

Again, this list is a result of my personal experience and heartfelt reactions with them.

Thank you for indulging me on this subject.

Jim

By Nancy (24.101.72.243) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 04:36 pm:

Hey Nish:
My favourites are foolish and come on over to my house, but every single cut is good I mean every single cut is good, I am going to find out where it is being sold email me at motherhouseoff@msn.com

By Tony B. (195.92.168.167) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 04:59 pm:

Ronnie Isley, because he's my all-time favourite singer!

By Steve LItos (209.100.86.4) on Sunday, February 09, 2003 - 09:35 pm:

Jim Vitti-
You are one lucky guy to have worked with (and recorded) all those great voices!
-Steve

By Common (209.2.55.170) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 10:39 am:

Hello everyone,

My favs are: Gladys Knight, David Ruffin(of course!),Levi Stubbs, Lionel Richie(before he turned "pop"), Teddy Pendergrass & Mavis Staples.

Reasons: they all have sheer vocal power, depth, emotion & the ability to make you feel & believe every word they sing!

Peace!

By skip (209.69.165.10) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 10:54 am:

Russell Thompkins Jr,Of the Stylistics William Hart of the Delfonics And Little Sonny of the Intruders. Skip

By KevGo (64.115.26.80) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 11:34 am:

Favorite 1950's - Clyde McPhatter (Dominoes/Drifters), the lead singer of the Chords (Sh-Boom) whose name escapes me (Nikki - help me!), Sonny Til of the Orioles, Arlene Smith (Chantels - and she still has the pipes!)

Favorite 1960s - David Ruffin (#1 with a bullet!), Eddie Kendricks, Little Sonny of the Intruders, Levi Stubbs, Wanda Rogers (Marvellettes), Martha Reeves, Willie Garcia (Thee Midnighters), Marvin Smith & Tommy Green (Artistics), Marvin Junior, Minnie Riperton (Rotary Connection), Cissy Houston (Sweet Inspirations), Jay Proctor (Jay & the Techniques)

Favorite 1970s - Eugene Record (Chi-Lites), Teddy Pendergrass, Russell Thompkins, "Tiny" & "Butch" from Tavares, Phillippe Wynne ('nuff said!), Gladys Knight, Jean Terrell

Each & every lead singer brings something unique and special to each & every song they sing, from the grittiness of Marvin Junior to the sultriness of Wanda Rogers. To pin down one person is hard - that's why my list is huge!

Kevin Goins - KevGo

By Nish (66.119.33.170) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 12:42 pm:

Lead singer of the chords - Carl Feaster

By TonyRussi (68.18.227.123) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:20 pm:

My fave female group lead singers would be 1)Martha Reeves 2)Wanda Rogers 3)Lala Brooks(Crystals)4)Gladys Knight 5)Gladys Horton Male: 1)Smokey Robinson 2)David Ruffin 3)Levi Stubbs 4)Curtis Womack(Valentinos)5)Dennis Edwards

By KevGo (64.115.26.80) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:26 pm:

Nish:
Thanks, kiddo.
Kevin Goins - KevGo

By cleoharvey (160.79.83.208) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:33 pm:

The obvious answers for me are Diana Ross (no matter what you say about her, she was wonderful with The Supremes), Gladys Knight, Teddy Pendergrass, David Ruffin, Martha Reeves, and Dennis Edwards (one of the great replacement lead singers of all time). However, when I began to think more about this question I had to add Phillipe Wynne of the Spinners to the list. A lot of people have forgotten him but that guy used to get downright happy when he sang and would give me goosebumps.
Michael

By KevGo (64.115.26.80) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:45 pm:

Michael:
Check out my list - I mentioned Phillipe Wynne.
Kevin Goins - KevGo

By Scratcher (65.132.76.146) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:55 pm:

Tony I don't recall Cecil Womack singing many leads with the Valentinos--it was usually Bobby. Cecil may have lead their Jubilee recordings, which aren't well known, but not the earlier stuff.

By cleoharvey (160.79.83.208) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 02:56 pm:

KevGo:

Just checked out your list and loved it! We seem to have similar tastes. Phillipe was incredible. I always remember him singing "I'm Coming Home." I believe that brother sang himself into a grave.

By the way, Mary Wilson was incredible at BB King's. You can read my comments on the Mary Wilson thread.
Peace,
MichaEL

By Livonia Ken (136.2.1.153) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 03:13 pm:

I'm not sure if he's my all time favorite (Levi Stubbs is probably it), but somebody needs to mention Curtis Mayfield's work with The Impressions, so it may as well be me.

Regards,
Ken McAlinden

By STUBASS (206.135.204.2) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 03:19 pm:

HEY KEN: DISPITE THE FACT THAT MY OVERALL VOTE GOES TO RUFFIN... AMONG A LONG LIST OF OTHER GREATS...DURING THE PERIOD OF 67-69...CURTIS MAYFIELD WAS MY *MAIN *MAN!!!...STU

By Nish (170.224.224.134) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 03:31 pm:

I'm so biased toward the male vocalists, so to give some recognition to the ladies, let me add Brenda Payton(Tabulations), Ruby Nash (Romantics), Eleanor Green (Superbs), Darlene Love, Diana Ross, Jean Terrell, Carol Jackson (Sapphires), Saundra Mallett... and as I look at my list, completely thru coincidence, the majority of these girls fronted otherwise all male groups...

And I missed the Scott twins of the Whispers and Sollie McElroy. When you start these lists, I just feel so GUILTY if I don't mention everyone I really love.

By bill (152.163.188.68) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 06:28 pm:

It has to be Levi Stubbs because of "Ask The Lonely".

Nothing compares to that.

Cheers,

Bill

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 06:32 pm:

Hey nish:
I am still trying to find out how you can get a hold of G.C. Camerons CD, I also for got to mention Darlene love and the Whispers,

By Ollie (63.210.220.12) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 06:47 pm:

This is easy: DAVID RUFFIN. Female: Martha Reeves. Also, Barbara Ingram, Cissy Houston, Levi Stubbs, the lead singer in 100 Proof (what's his name?), Marvin Junior of the Dells.

By KevGo (64.115.26.80) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 08:35 pm:

Ollie:
Joe Stubbs - Levi's brother - was one of the lead singers in 100 Proof Aged In Soul.
Kevin Goins - KevGo

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 11:17 pm:

Hey Nish I will have information in a few days on where you can get a hold of G.C. Cameron's CD I have been told that currently it is sold out but I will let you know when i get more info

By Lucy (152.163.197.49) on Monday, February 10, 2003 - 11:29 pm:

THE MAN HIMSELF...I BELIEVE IN YOU AND ME....MY BELOVED LEVI...WITHOUT A DOUBT.

LUCY

By TonyRussi (68.18.227.123) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 08:13 am:

Hey Scratcher, I said CURTIS Womack as Curtis sang lead on my fave Valentino's SAR recording(45)"I'll Make It Alright".Bobby had already gone solo when Mary Wells & CECIL Womack wrote & produced the Jubilee recordings.Curtis was the lead and my fave of those 2 45's released was "The Death of Love". Curtis also had a great solo 45 release in '76 written & produced by Bobby on the Playboy label called "Boogie Woogie Jones".If you like the Valentinos the SAR records story CD box set is the deal...has their gospel recordings on it also BUT does not include "I'll Make It Alright"!Take care.

By Livonia Ken (136.1.1.101) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 08:37 am:

Steve Mancha (aka Clyde Wilson) was the lead singer on most of the 100 Proof Aged in Soul hits. Joe Stubbs took some leads as well.

Regards,
Ken

By fayette (152.163.201.72) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 02:38 pm:

my favorite two groups are THE TEMPTATIONS and
EARTH, WIND AND FIRE.being from atlanta they
had a place called the muncipal auditorium.
when they place that one mike stand with the
five microphones, we screamed to the top of our
lunges cause we knew the temptations were going to
send us to hog heaven.i like wild flower by
NEW BIRTH.EARTH WIND AND FIRE they got so many
great songs it's hard to pick just one.they are so talented

By Scratcher (65.132.78.142) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 03:57 pm:

Tony, "I'll Make It Alright" and its flip "Darling Come Back Home" are my two favorite Valentinos' songs. I know the label says Curtis is singing lead but it doesn't sound like him it sounds like Bobby. I know Bobby had left when they recorded for Jubilee that's why I thought you were referring to those cuts, which I've never heard.

There's a bootleg Valentinos album available via Dead Dog Records (they have a website). I meant to order it sometime ago but never did, I can't remember what songs are on it but there are a lot.

I also like their Chess recording "What About Me."

By Davie Gordon (193.122.21.26) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 04:22 pm:

Ollie,

The main lead with 100 Proof was the great Steve
Mancha.

Joe Stubbs only managed to get a couple of
leads - it's a shame there's not more 100 Proof
material, two albums isn't enough !

By Scratcher (65.132.78.142) on Tuesday, February 11, 2003 - 04:25 pm:

Joe Stubbs sings lead on 100 Proofs' "Ain't That Loving You (For More Reasons Than One)," my favorite version of that song. I think Stubbs left after being with the group less than a year.

By Allen (24.165.80.12) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 07:48 am:

I enjoy all the singers very much. There's never been another voice anything like David Ruffin's. Marvin Gaye was so smooth, I heard sunlight slid off of him. Gladys Knight and The Pips, The Andantes, Mary Wells. The list is endless. A vocalist really had to have some cahonas (sp) walking up to Hitsville talking about "I wanna be a singer".

I always listened for Paul Williams lead vocals. Paul was always my favorite Temp. I felt his pain. And even though his wasn't the most refined voice of the group, I felt an extra meaning from his delivery because he knew he wasn't the best singer in the group but he was determined to deliver the few he did lead, with all of his heart.

When he sang "I Want A Love I Can See", that became my love anthem. I actually told girls. "Don't want no love you have to tell me about. That kind of love I can sure do without."

Of course they thought I was crazy but, I believed what Paul Williams had told me in that song. Plus he could dance up a storm. Real smooth with his moves.

I told that to Cholly Atkins, and he just laughed.

Shorty Longs "Function At The Junction" is also one of my alltime favorites. Fantastic Lyrics.

Allen

By Sue (64.12.97.7) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 08:45 am:

You heard sunlight slide off of Marvin's voice? I like that, Allen ... I may steal it.

Why did Cholly laugh, did he think Paul wasn't a good dancer?

By Allen (24.165.80.12) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 09:22 am:

Hello Dear Sue:

You may use my line. I come up with them frequently. You may use it with no fear of prosecution or retribution. : )

I don't really know why Cholly laughed. To me it seemed like he might have been laughing at an inside joke amongst the Temps. As if there may have been some debate within the group.

Nice to hear from you.

Allen

By R&B (138.238.41.128) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 09:32 am:

HEY,ALLEN I AGREE TOTALLY ON PAUL,HE WAS AWSOME,THE PAIN IN HIS VOICE MADE HIS SONGS STAND OUT AND SOUND VERY SINCERE AS IF HE WERE SAYING[BABY YOU MUST LISTEN TO WHAT I'M SAYING}WITH THE OTHER TEMPS YOU COULD MOVE AROUND OR WHATEVER WHEN THEY SANG,BUT WITH PAUL YOU ALMOST HAD TO STAND STILL AND LISTEN TO THE MESSAGE,AND HE HAD A LOT TO SAY{NO MORE WATER IN THE WELL,SLOW DOWN HEART,WHO YOU GONNA RUN TO,TEARSTAINED LETTER}THE LIST IS ENDLESS.PAUL WILLIAMS THE SOUL OF THE TEMPTATIONS!

By Nish (66.119.33.135) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 09:36 am:

Another Paul fan here! My favorite Paul lead is "Who You Gonna Run To," he really handles that song, and his delivery is so convincing. He was definitely one of the more exciting artists to watch, even when others were leading, you KNEW Paul was gettin down, so you couldn't help but find yourself watching Paul just as closely as you were watching David or Eddie on the lead mic.

By Lucy (152.163.204.181) on Wednesday, February 12, 2003 - 09:13 pm:

HOLD THE PHONE,FRIENDS.
MY BELOVED LEVI SINGING "DON'T TELL ME THAT IT'S OVER" AND "I JUST CAN'T WALK AWAY".
BOTH ON THE ANTHOLOGY CD.

OHHHH MY GOD.....BE STILL MY HEART.

LUCY

By Allen (24.165.80.12) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 08:21 am:

Lucy,

You ok today?
I'M just making sure we didn't lose you overnight.

: )

Allen

By R&B (138.238.41.131) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 12:37 pm:

HEY LUCY,I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN,[SHAKE ME,WAKE ME}ALWAYS GIVES ME SHIVERS.LEVI,MAN O MAN!

By LUCY (205.188.209.38) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 06:38 pm:

Hey Allen,
I'm fine!!!!!!!!
THE MAN's VOICE IS LIKE NO OTHER...NEVER,EVER,EVER,EVER,EVER WILL THERE BE A VOICE LIKE MY BELOVED LEVI!!!!!

BUT,YOU ALREADY KNEW THAT!!!!!!

LUCY

By SisDetroit (68.42.209.170) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 06:41 pm:

Lucy - My heart pounds to the sound of Levi's voice.

By Creole/Aljaydu (68.18.99.40) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 08:13 pm:

Some of those young singers could actually learn a thing or two if they were to study Levi Stubbs.
His is and always will be my all-time favorite singer. Da Man is Da Man ! Period !!!!!

Lucy, how are you ??? Long time no hear from.
How the family? Tell everybody That Creole send them my love and Happy Valentin's Day !!!!!

By Lucy (205.188.209.38) on Thursday, February 13, 2003 - 11:04 pm:

Hey Creole,
YOU SAID IT,MY FRIEND.LEVI IS DA MAN!!!!!
I'M FINE,THE FAMILY IS FINE.I HOPE YOU AND YOURS ARE AS WELL.
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY TO YOU AND YOURS.

KEEP IN TOUCH!!!!

LUCY

By Lucy (205.188.209.38) on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 - 07:16 pm:

Dear Deborah,
I just have a question....Is it true your BELOVED DAD never had a voice lesson????

Lucy

By fayette (205.188.209.38) on Tuesday, February 18, 2003 - 09:09 pm:

i'll say cuba gooding of the main ingredient
frankie lymon,phillip baileyand maurice
dennis edwards,tempts had so many great lead
singers,phillip wynn,gladys knight

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.130) on Wednesday, February 19, 2003 - 09:56 am:

Hi Lucy,

Yes, it's true...my Dad never had a voice lesson.
It is truly a gift from God. My uncle Joe who
also sang with the Falcons and Contours also had
a great voice and he never had a voice lesson either.
I'd have to say my favorite lead singers would be
Levi Stubbs of course, and Emanuel "EJ" Johnson
of Enchantment!! I must admit I am a little bias
with both of these "gentlemen", but truthfully
I think they are the BEST !!!

Deborah Stubbs-Boatner

By Lynn Bruce (65.60.200.153) on Wednesday, February 19, 2003 - 11:35 am:

I,d like to add Andy Alonzo to my list of top group lead singers.He,s been singing in groups since the 50s and is still singing professionally.He still sounds great!!!

Lynn

By music fan (151.204.38.119) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 04:28 pm:

There are some great vocalists to come out of the Philadelphia South Jersey area. I'd like to add Ms. Marilyn Marshall to that list. Have you heard her album "Hold On". She performed at the Live Concert tribute to Motown Legend Richard street formerly of the Temptations last year, with that young vocal group LMNT ("element").

By Fury13 (209.69.165.10) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 04:34 pm:

Tony Williams, Platters
Nolan Strong, Diablos
Fred Parris, Five Satins
Clyde McPhatter, Dominoes/Drifters
Hank Ballard, Royals/Midnighters
David Ruffin, Temptations
Nathaniel Ruff, Jarmels
Joe Stubbs, Falcons
Wilson Pickett, Falcons

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.113.233) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 04:43 pm:

Deborah, you're being "biased" ? Noooooo.
I'm going to be a little biased myself...
The one and only Levi Stubbs.

Lucy, didn't believe me, huh?

By David Meikle (81.135.32.74) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 10:02 am:

Alexander Patton, Capitol Records

By Aba (208.191.122.205) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 12:51 pm:

Dennis Edwards with the Temptations because of his fire and brimstone approach to some songs and his ability to get you with songs like A SONG FOR YOU.

Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops because he is just one of the great voices of our time.

LJ Reynolds of the Dramatics. He can really make you believe it's raining on nobody's house but yours.

Philippe Soul Wynn of the Spinners what more can I can I can can I say. I picked you up when you were sinking down, turned your life around.
Oh Lazy Susan, every now and then, I'll let you go off in the city and buy a couple of dresses. Make yourself look real pretty. I can tell you're not lazy. The folks just don't know you like to take real slow

Sugar Bear of the Ohio Players. They just had a great sound that was built for the 70s. And girl I don't have to listen to your lies. One day I'll be able to make up my own mind. Cause I done finally realized I can get you out of my life

Eugene Record with the Chi-Lites..aw man what can you say about these brothers. They could blow!

By thecount (65.60.201.174) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 07:23 pm:

By thecount (65.60.201.174) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 07:31 pm:

As mentioned in post by a few above,here is a shot with DAVID RUFFIN and DIANNA ROSS.
My vote for favorite goes to "DAVID"
Dianna is so skinny,you've got to donate blood just so she can have a period.
"COUNT"

By DJ (130.156.140.2) on Tuesday, March 04, 2003 - 01:56 am:

There are some great Rnb crossover and pop vocalists. The Bee Gees, "Love So Right", "Too Much Heaven", also Jordan Knight from the New Kids on the block "This one's For the Children" has a great voice and a falsetto reminicent of Russell Thompkins,Jr of the Stylistics.

By JSmith (212.39.231.20) on Tuesday, March 04, 2003 - 08:21 am:

For me it has to be Levi (& David Ruffin, Marvin Junior + Eddie Levert).
How about if all 4 had been in a studio together, I bet that would have been competitive.
Speakin of Cholly...I asked him about Motown groups he had worked with & when I mentioned the Contours he just said ' Not those fools'. Guess he didn't like practical jokers.

By DJ (130.156.140.2) on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 - 02:46 am:

Billy Paul excellent!

By Greeneyes (65.238.91.12) on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 - 11:01 am:

Jean Terrell (Supremes)
La La Brooks (Crystals)
Ann Curless (Expose)
David Ruffin (Temptations)
Arlene Smith (Chantels)
Levi Stubbs (Tops)
Wanda Rogers (Marvelettes)
Ruby Nash (Romantics)

By sdl (63.72.98.2) on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 - 05:42 pm:

Male leads: Levi of the Tops and *EDDIE*, David and Paul of the Tempts.

Female: Gladys Knight of the Pips & Patti Labelle of the Bluebells.

PS. How could you all mention Ruffin and not Sweet Eddie and Paul. All three had some awsome leads!

By Bob Olhsson (12.77.94.212) on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 - 08:48 pm:

Levi Stubbs because the man ALWAYS sings every song better than he did the last time while most other great singers are great one night and not so great the next. Levi is the most consistently great singer I've ever experienced and he also has a massive talent to ego ratio. What more can I say?

By sdl (208.59.125.133) on Tuesday, March 11, 2003 - 10:34 pm:

Oops, Ammendment:

I said:
Male leads: Levi of the Tops and *EDDIE*, David and Paul of the Tempts.

I should have said:
Male leads: Levi of the Tops and *EDDIE*, David, Paul and Dennis of the Tempts. (I'm sorry Dennis)

By Aljaydu (68.18.113.197) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 10:15 am:

Bob you've said it all !
Levi...my choice.

Bob, I've been reading your articles on line...I'm a fan.

By Still16 (198.109.0.236) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 02:00 pm:

Just found a great music link soulfuldetroiters might want to check out:
classicbands.com

By stephanie (64.63.221.117) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 02:17 pm:

Bob
The Great Bob Ohlsson that is!!! Thank you so much for your input on Levi you were there you should know. I heard he never went on a power trip or acted like the guys were not important. As a matter of fact I heard Duke Fakir say that Levi wanted the other guys to have some leads too but Motown wasnt having it. They said Levi was a kind and sharing man. I also read Gordy wanted to put Levi's name up front and Levi said no.
What a man. He is incredible and has one of the best voices of the century...I know the Supremes and the Temps and Martha and the Vandellas are all great and as much of a Supremes fanatic that I am I would have to say Levi Stubbs (if I had to pick one voice) is the voice that is Motown..
Steph

By music fan (151.204.38.119) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 04:24 pm:

How could you mention David Ruffin and Dennis Edwards and non include the equally amazing Ali-Ollie Woodson. One of the Temptations best vocalists!

By PhillyGroove (205.188.209.38) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 05:00 pm:

This is a very tough thread, to come up with an all time favorite. I love all the singers that you've listed.

But one name I'd like to add, particularly since he did an amazing job on the PBS special "Rhythm, Love and Soul" ...

... GERALD ALSTON of The Manhattans.

I saw them live in L.A. last July, with The Stylistics, Delfonics, Chi-Lites, Main Ingredient, and Harold Melvin's Blue Notes ... and I have to say that Gerald Alston tore it up! He was powerful, passionate, and left us all singing, foot stomping, and sweatin'!

By Major (199.106.18.2) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 08:44 pm:

There are so many favorites of mine but one of my favories has to be mister showmanship himself, Mr.David Ruffin. How can we forget his brother, Jimmy Ruffin! He had an awesome voice in his own right. Later.

By b-town (207.8.188.200) on Thursday, March 13, 2003 - 10:46 am:

Favorite female: Ms. Marilyn Marshall "Hold On"
Male vocalist: Major Harris with the Delfonics "Walk Right up to the Sun"
William Hart "Alfie" with the Delfonics and the solo track "Here's To You"
I also like Gerald Alston with the Manhattans and as a solo with "Take Me Where You Want To"

Richard Street with the Temptations "Firefly", "Heavenly" and his best recording "Everything For Christmas"

By bigd66 (195.92.194.11) on Thursday, March 13, 2003 - 03:50 pm:

Without question one of the finest pitch perfect singers of all time has to be the late Little Willie John (King Records)many artists sight this guy as a big inspiration - A tragic figure who died in a prison cell who could have ruled the world if circumstances had been different.

group wise Carlis Monroe of the Falcons (SECOND GROUP) - BIG WHEEL, takes some beating.
Female wise it has to be BETTYE you know who i'm talking about of course little miss Haskin aka Lavette.
There are so many great vocal talents but i'll go along with many of you that Levi has to be towards the top of tree.
Mark Bicknell.

By BankHouseDave (195.93.50.9) on Thursday, March 13, 2003 - 03:55 pm:

Hey Count, I just saw your picture and skinny did it for me. I have a schoolbook from that era with a collage on the cover with Ms Ross walking on water. She made some wrong choices, but, in her defence, she didn't know I was available.

By DUSTYROSE (152.163.188.68) on Thursday, March 13, 2003 - 04:22 pm:

MY FAVORITE, IS AND ALWAYS WILL BE
SMOKEY ROBINSON
YEAR AFTER YEAR "FROM SOLID TO SUBLIME"

FEMALE FAVORITE;GLADYS KNIGHT .WHAT AN EMOTIONAL
RANGE.
I LOVE TO READ EVERYONES CHOICES. I USUSUALLY GO
OUT AN PURCHASE MORE MUSIC AFTER READING AND COMPARING.

WHAT A GREAT SITE AND A GREAT GROUP OF FANS.